nine nova scotia lakes now contaminated with blue-green algae, conditions favour more blooms
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a sign tells visitors to oakfield provincial park that the beach is closed due to the presence of blue-green algae on july 29.
ryan taplin
/
chronicle herald
the nova scotia government is urging extra vigilance around blue-green algae now that outbreaks are expanding around the province.
the latest update shows nine contaminated lakes, so public health issued a fresh warning this week.
“each year we hear about blue-green algae in lakes, ponds, rivers and streams around nova scotia,” reads the public service announcement. “toxins in blue-green algae can make people sick and can be fatal for pets if swallowed. here are a few tips from public health on what to do if you encounter blue-green algae this summer.
“pay attention to blue-green algae alerts for freshwater lakes, especially in warmer weather. do not swim in or swallow water where blue-green algae is present. if you come in contact with blue-green algae, wash yourself and any items that came in contact with it. seek medical attention if you feel sick afterward. if your pet swallows water with blue-green algae, contact a vet immediately.”
the affected sites listed by the department of environment and climate change are:
- third lake in windsor junction
- grand lake near enfield
- east lake ainslie in inverness
- eight island lake in guysborough
- medway river in charleston
- gaspereau lake in welton landing
- wentworth lake in moodys corner
- aylesford lake in the annapolis valley
- minamkeak lake in camperdown
an example of cyanobacterium, also known as a blue-green algae. – postmedia file
halifax regional municipality officials closed the popular swimming area at the oakfield provincial park on grand lake last week. the 18 supervised swimming areas in the metro area are monitored regularly, with updates posted by hrm.
blue-green algae, otherwise known as cyanobacteria, grows primarily in fresh water that is shallow and still. the current weather across the province makes for ideal growing conditions for blue-green algae. the combination of rain, followed by high heat and low winds, often leads to blooms.
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nova scotia is in the early days of a heat wave that is expected to feature highs above 30 degrees celsius every day until next week.
an example of a planktonic blue-green algae bloom. – government of nova scotia
two dog deaths from ingesting water containing blue-green algae have been reported in nova scotia since 2021. cattle, wildlife and other livestock and pets that drink from outdoor sources can also be vulnerable.
the most common symptoms for humans who drink contaminated water are nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, headache and fever. swimming where there is a bloom or mat can irritate the skin, eyes, lips and ears. it is also wise to avoid eating fish that have been caught in affected sources of water.
an example of a decaying planktonic blue-green algae bloom. – government of nova scotia
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